Deadwood’s Top Winter Trails for Snowmobilers
When winter blankets the Black Hills, Deadwood becomes a launching point for one of the most spectacular snowmobiling adventures in the country. With over 350 miles of groomed trails in the Black Hills National Forest, the region offers a rich network of routes for sledders of all levels.
In this post, we will break down some of the most iconic trails around Deadwood, guide you through their different segments, and highlight what you can see on each leg.
Understanding the Trail System
The Black Hills snowmobile trail system is extensive, managed in part by the U.S. Forest Service and South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks.
Key trailheads to know:
- Custer Peak Trailhead
- About 11 miles south of Deadwood on US-385. Provides access to Trail 7.
- Dumont Trailhead
- Reached from Deadwood via US-14A toward Lead, then on North Rochford Road. Connects to Trails 7, 7A, 5, and others
- Trailshead Trailhead
- hub with nearly ten trails radiating out, including toward Deadwood, into Wyoming, and to Bear Mountain in the south.
The
snowmobiling season
typically runs from December 15 through March 31.
Key Trail Segments Near Deadwood
Here's a breakdown of major trail “parts” around Deadwood and what makes each special:
- Trail 7 – The Backbone Route
- From Custer Peak Trailhead to Deadwood / Lead region
- This is one of the main corridors into the northern Black Hills from Deadwood.
- As you ride upward toward Custer Peak, expect sweeping forested terrain, elevation gain, and panoramic views.
- This trail connects to several smaller spur trails (like 7A) that give access to mining areas, overlooks, and remote wilderness.
- Terry Peak Outing
- One highlight accessed via Trail 7 is Terry Peak, a high-elevation area whose ridgeline offers breathtaking snowy vistas
- The terrain here is a mix of open ridges and dense forest, making for thrilling riding and fantastic photo ops.
- Trail 5 – Meadows & Woods
- Trail 5 is highly recommended for those who enjoy a blend of open meadows, gentle hills, and wooded pathways.
- The route can feel very peaceful: you’ll ride through soft, snow-covered fields and dart in and out of pine stands, giving a contrasting experience to the higher, more exposed ridgelines.
- Trail 1 – Spearfish Canyon Vistas
- This trail winds through Spearfish Canyon, one of the most scenic corridors in the Black Hills.
- As you ride, look for towering limestone cliffs, frozen waterfalls, and narrow canyon walls that echo with the winter quiet.
- It’s a photographer’s dream — there are spots where you can stop (safely) to take in the beauty.
- Connections & Loops
- The network is not just linear: via the Dumont Trailhead, you can hop from Trail 7 to 7A, or connect to Trail 5, making loops or multi-leg rides possible.
- From the Trailshead Trailhead, you can branch off in several directions — north toward Deadwood, west into Wyoming, or south toward more remote mountain landscapes
- Because of this connectivity, rides can be tailored for length, difficulty, and scenery. Whether you want a short scenic trip or a multi-hour expedition, the choices are flexible.
What You’ll See Along the Way
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for deer and elk in forested zones. The Black Hills are a natural winter refuge.
- Scenic Lookouts: Points like Flag Mountain (on Trail 2F) offer stunning overlooks; while on other trails you’ll find wind shelters or lookout areas with wide panoramic views.
- Historic Mining Sites: Some trails near Lead and Deadwood wind past old mines, giving you a taste of the region’s gold rush history.
- Forest Beauty: Expect dense pine groves, snow-laden meadows, and the kind of quiet that only winter brings.
- Rivers & Canyons: On Trail 1 through Spearfish Canyon, frozen waterfalls and dramatic rock formations make the ride feel almost magical.
Tips for Planning Your Snowmobile Trip
- Check Trail Conditions
- Use the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks site for up-to-date trail conditions and live trail cameras.
- You’ll need a proper snowmobile permit. In SD, non-residents get a 5-day permit; residents get a permanent permit.
- Some parts of the trail system cross private land. Stay on marked trails and follow signage.
- Dress in layers, wear a helmet + goggles
- It’s best to ride with a buddy. If something goes wrong, you’ll have backup.
- Plan your fuel stops and carry enough. Some trailheads (like Custer Peak) don’t have services.
- Consider warming shelters or scenic stops for breaks — many trail maps show these points.
- Places like Mystic Hills Hideaway offer cabins, RV hook-ups, rentals, and guided snowmobile tours.
Why Deadwood Is the Perfect Snowmobiling Base
- Accessibility: From Deadwood, you can quickly hit major trailheads like Custer Peak or Dumont.
- Variety: Whether you're chasing cliff views, meadows, or high ridgelines, the trail system is diverse.
- Amenities: Deadwood has snowmobile rental companies, lodging, and local expertise — whether you're a first-time rider or an experienced sledder.
- Scenery + History: You’re not just riding — you’re traversing the heart of the Black Hills, near historic mining towns and rugged landscapes.
If you’re looking for a winter adventure, Deadwood’s snowmobile trails should be high on your list. The way the trails intertwine gives you flexibility, the winter landscapes offer breathtaking beauty, and the infrastructure (trailheads, rentals, warming spots) makes it accessible and fun. Whether you're out for a few hours or planning a longer sledding getaway, there's a route that’s just right for you.
Adventure awaits — and in Deadwood, it’s just a rev of the engine away.
